Go Back
+ servings
Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo

Creamy Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo in Under 30 Minutes

Enjoy a comforting Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo that's quick, delicious, and family-friendly.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Can substitute with tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Veggies
  • 2 cups Broccoli Florets Fresh broccoli is preferred; frozen can be used if thawed.
For the Pasta
  • 1 cup Orzo Pasta Can be swapped with ditalini or rice.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
  • 1/2 cup Cream Plant-based cream can be used for a dairy-free version.
For the Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
  • 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Optional for added heat.

Equipment

  • large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by gathering all your ingredients for the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo. Chop the chicken breast into bite-sized pieces and cut the broccoli into small florets.
  2. In a large pot over medium heat, melt a bit of butter or heat oil before adding the diced chicken. Sauté the chicken for about 5–7 minutes until it's golden brown and cooked through.
  3. Once the chicken is cooked, stir in the broccoli florets and orzo pasta. Add enough chicken broth to cover the ingredients, approximately 3 cups.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 10–12 minutes, or until the orzo is tender.
  5. Once the orzo is cooked, remove the pot from heat. Add the freshly grated cheddar cheese and cream, stirring well until the cheese melts completely.
  6. Spoon the Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Orzo into bowls and enjoy it warm right away.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 30gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, serve immediately to keep the creamy texture intact. Adjust the seasoning as desired before serving.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!